The petitioners also requested the council enforce the hostel on the corner of Edward and Ann streets hold some responsibility for litter from cigarette butts and congestion from persons congregating at the hostel entry.

Cr Cook said she supported the position to ban smoking on the footpath which was frequently crowded with smokers and littered with butts.

“It means that non-smokers, thousands of commuters, including parents with children and prams, are funnelled on to this smoke-filled, congested footpath,” Cr Cook said.

There is frequently several people standing on the Edward footpath smoking while pedestrians walk past.

Photo: Ruth McCosker

“Non-smokers shouldn’t have to battle a cloud of toxic smoke just going about their daily business.

“There is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke.

“That’s why we have designated smoking areas in numerous premises and smoke-free zones throughout the city.”

Council officers assessed the petitioner’s request and said a smoking ban was currently in place on the western side of Edward Street, from Adelaide to Queen streets, as this area was considered an outdoor pedestrian mall.

“For other areas on Edward Street, excluding the hostel, it is a requirement for people not to smoke within five metres of an entrance to an enclosed place,” the council officers said as part of their recommendation.

“A council officer engaged with hostel management on 10 August 2018 to discuss the issue of visitors blocking of the footpath while smoking, and the potential for increased cigarette litter.

“Hostel management have confirmed they will advise all residents of their obligations to ensure the footpath is clear and dispose of cigarette butts appropriately.”